One of the glories of Northants is the old remnants of Rockingham Forest, and in spring they are just outstanding. One remnant is Southwick Wood, conserved by the Cambs, Beds and Northants Wildlife Trust. It’s bloomin’ marvelous. We went on 1st April (really!), and stuff was just coming out.

I’m a bit of a fan of the poetry of John Clare, the 19th Century peasant poet. Since my parents live quite close to his home village of Helpston, we managed to arrange a dual visit on 31st March. Read more…